Construction Begins on Atwood Renovation

ST. CLOUD -- St. Cloud State University's student union is getting a multi-million dollar face lift.

Construction began Monday on a $4.8 million project that will update the Atwood Memorial Center.

AMC Director Margaret Vos says the project will be paid for through student fees. The university secured a $3.5 million, 20 year bond at 2.78% interest. Vos says they were able to set aside funds, which reduced the amount needed for the bond.

Space will be added for student organizations, staff offices and infrastructure.

The lower level will see the greatest changes with an increase of storage space, a multi-use room and new rehearsal room, featuring mirrors, sound and video-projection systems.The Multicultural Student Services' space will also be expanded.

Students will see additional computers, printers and phone-charging stations throughout the building.

Vos says they hope to have construction completed by August 15th.

SCSU students defeated two previous attempts to renovate Atwood through a referendum vote in 2010 and 2011.

Vos says the university will continue to pursue additional upgrades to the building. She added that the student government approved the current project in January.